Fluminense sending under-23 side to play in USA pre-season tournament

Fluminense are looking to strengthen their ties in the USA by sending an under-23 side to the United States to play in the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic tournament.

Paulo Freitas wrote for Soccerly's website and discussed the partnership building between Flu and US football.

The tournament runs from February 19th until March 1st and Fluminense will make their debut in the competition alongside: Philadelphia Union, Toronto FC, New York Red Bulls, Columbus Crew, Sporting Kansas City and Orlando City.

Flu's club president Peter Siemsen told their official website about the importance of being "in touch with different markets."

Soccerly quoted Siemsen, who said: "It's important for Fluminense to be in touch with different markets.

"Football is clearly growing fast in the United States, which opens new opportunities for Brazilian clubs."

It isn't the first link Flu have had with the United States though. In 2012 they allowed Raphael Augusto to leave Brazil and move to MLS side DC United.

Samuel was also recently allowed to go on loan to Los Angeles Galaxy. In addition to this, Fluminense have participated in the Dallas Cup youth tournament before, and they also stayed in America during the break in the Brazilian season last year whilst the Confederation's Cup was ongoing.

It is hoped that Flu's continued work in the United States will help boost the growing bond developing between Brazilian and American football and also give Fluminense's youngsters a unique experience.